The first thing I see when I look out my window is my flag of the United States of America blowing in the breeze. Often, I will sit and gaze at the flag - great focus for thinking. These are my musings and ramblings, and, on occasion, rants... I am unapologetic in my support of our military, our country and my devotion to God. I will honor them and pay tribute to them here.
Along the side bar you will find tributes to Oregon's fallen warriors.

President Obama has ordered additional troops to Afghanistan. This partially fulfills the request made by Army Gen. David McKiernan to increase the troop strength. He has also requested another combat brigade team.

A total of 12,000 troops will be deployed later this Spring. The orders are for up to 17,000 troops, with the remaining 5,000 to be support troops.

The 4,000 soldiers are part of the 2nd Infantry Division's 5th Stryker Brigade Combat Team based at Fort Lewis, Washington, and the 8,000 Marines serve with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Snow covered and cold - dusty and hot - Afghanistan is a varied and difficult environment. This will not be an easy deployment for these troops.